Courses % time
Math 14
Physics & Chem. 13
Intro. Computing 5
Mechanics & Thermodynamics 5
Electromagnetic Fields 2
Logic Circuits & Lab 3
Computer Architecture & Switching 5
Circuits & Electronics & Labs 13
Energy Conversion 2
Linear Systems 2
Oral/Written Communications 5
Social Science/Humanities 13
Other electives* 18
|
*Electives may include additional technical
courses in Semiconductor Device Construction,
Advanced Topics in Computer Languages, Computer
Architecture, Computer Construction,
Communications, Microwaves, etc., depending on
the interests and the size of the faculty.
Topics in business and arts and sciences may
also be included.
Courses % time
Math 14
Physics or Chem. 13
Intro. Computing 5
Computer Hardware & Microcomputers 7
Software Engineering 7
Lab & Design Work 9
Electrical engineering electives 9
Other technical electives 9
Oral/Written Communications 5
Social Science/Humanities 13
Other electives* 9
|
Courses % time
Math 13
Physics & Labs 6
Digital Systems & Microcomputers 6
Intro. Programming 2
Advanced Programming 3
Circuits & Electronics & Labs 22
Computer Systems & Applications 5
Linear Systems 2
Communications 3
Control Systems 3
Oral/Written Communication 7
Social Science/Humanities 12
Technical electives 16 |
Courses % time
Math 6-19
Physics & Labs 6
Computer Programming 2
Digital Electronics & Microprocessors/
Microcomputers 3-6
Circuits, Networks, Electronic Devices 12-23
Linear Circuits & Systems 6-19
Machines, Control Systems, Robotics 2-7
Drawing/CAD/Fabrication Skills 2
Oral/Written Communications 5
Social Science/Humanities 5
|
Engineering courses require a high degree of
analytical skill and the ability to handle
abstract models of physical phenomena. In
general, the more abstract or theoretical the
course, the more condensed is the information,
and the more broadly it can be applied when
accompanied by fundamental concepts and common
sense. Learning the theory of engineering allows
you to create designs and to build models of
systems. It also allows you to analyze the
potential failure of systems that have already
been constructed.
An electrical engineering
program will usually include more mathematics
and science than will technology and technician
programs. The program may include electives in
electronic design, communications, control and
signal processing theory, solid state devices,
integrated circuit design, radio wave and
optical communications systems, and power
generation and distribution. Mathematics courses
will typically include calculus, differential
equations, linear algebra, probability theory,
and statistics.
The basic courses of computer
engineering are almost identical to those for
electrical and electronics engineering. The
differences occur toward the end of the college
program where the technical concentration is on
computer architecture, switching theory, and
computer design. You will probably find more
electives in numerical methods, database design,
operating systems, artificial intelligence, data
communications, and voice communications.
Engineering technology programs
emphasize both technical and practical
proficiency. They are more likely to specialize
in a particular discipline starting with the
first year. They also include a laboratory
experience with almost every technical course,
and they usually include courses in
computer-aided drafting (CAD), fabrication,
software development, data acquisition, and
report writing.
An electronics program may
emphasize solid-state circuitry and
communications, while an electrical program
would offer more instruction in electrical
machines, control systems, power systems,
robotics, and automated manufacturing. Computer
technology programs provide students with a
stronger background in computer software and
hardware, but still include basic circuits and
electronics courses.
If you compare courses in
engineering with similar courses in engineering
technology, you'll find that engineering
technology programs tend to be oriented to
contemporary devices and systems and current
technology. There is less emphasis on the
underlying science and more on the here and now. Work experience can help make educational
activities more meaningful, and it often
provides insight into the kind of work you will
be doing after graduation. A number of
universities offer co-op programs, which involve
alternating education and work experience. These
programs may take longer than the standard four
years to complete, but many employers compensate
for this with higher starting salaries. Summer
jobs or internships in engineering offer
alternatives to practical co-op experience and
provide some of the same benefits. |